human rights Archives

BetaBeacon

May 5, 2026

ScarCruft Hacks Gaming Platform to Deploy BirdCall Malware on Android and Windows

ScarCruft compromised a video game platform in a supply chain attack, trojanizing its components with a backdoor called BirdCall to target ethnic Koreans residing in China. The attack enabled the threat actors to target both Windows and Android devices, turning it into a multi-platform threat. The campaign targeted sqgame[.]net, a gaming platform used by ethnic Koreans in China, known as a transit point for North Korean defectors. BirdCall has features like screenshot capture, keystroke logging, and data gathering, and relies on legitimate cloud services for command-and-control. The Android variant collects various data and has seen active development.

Winsage

April 25, 2026

In France they “buried” Windows 10 at the Microsoft office

On April 24, a protest organized by environmental and consumer advocacy groups took place outside the Microsoft France office in Paris to oppose the company's decision to discontinue support for the Windows 10 operating system. Activists claim this could lead to the obsolescence of approximately 300 million computers worldwide, resulting in 58 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions and significant depletion of raw materials. Consumers may face an average cost of €600 for new devices if they upgrade. Experts warn users must choose between expensive new hardware or risking financial fraud due to lack of security updates. The organization Halte à l'Obsolescence Programmée is gathering signatures for a petition advocating for a mandatory 15-year software support period. Public advocacy previously convinced Microsoft to extend its software update releases by an additional 12 months. The protest aims to raise awareness and apply pressure until the end of October.

TrendTechie

March 24, 2026

Торренты не пройдут. Как следят за интернетом в КНДР

North Korea allows limited access to the internet, smartphones, and laptops, but this access is heavily monitored by the government. Citizens use rebranded Chinese smartphones equipped with surveillance software called Red Flag, which captures screenshots of user activities. The country has developed a Linux-based operating system, Red Star, that alerts authorities if a file from outside the country is opened. Software designed by North Korean engineers tags media files accessed on devices, enabling tracking of foreign content consumption. The telecommunications system, developed with Egypt's Orascom, operates a dual network for locals and tourists, preventing direct communication between the two. Foreign SIM cards are tracked and destroyed to limit global internet access. Viewing certain foreign content can lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty for materials that criticize the regime or involve pornography. There is a black market for USB drives containing contraband content, reflecting demand despite the risks. To combat the appeal of foreign entertainment, the government has created approximately 125 mobile games, including one featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, to keep citizens engaged with local content.

AppWizard

March 22, 2026

Russia is killing Telegram, its most popular messaging app, despite fears of pushback

The Kremlin is increasing its control over Telegram, Russia's most popular messaging app, leading to resistance from citizens and regime supporters. Telegram serves as an essential communication tool for many Russians, including pro-Kremlin activists like Grigory Korolyov, who uses it for military fundraising, and Olga Krygina, who organizes humanitarian aid. The government frames Telegram as a platform for terrorism, justifying restrictions by claiming it does not comply with Russian laws. Pavel Durov, Telegram's founder, is under investigation for allegedly assisting terrorism, which he denies, suggesting the crackdown is a government attempt to suppress dissent. The promotion of a state-backed alternative, MAX, has faced skepticism and connectivity issues. Military bloggers express concern that a potential ban on Telegram could harm battlefield communication, with reports indicating soldiers are being told to remove the app. Despite assurances from the Kremlin about alternative communication systems, experts argue that Telegram is vital for military operations, raising doubts about the effectiveness of MAX in this context.

AppWizard

February 14, 2026

Russia Blocks WhatsApp Nationwide, Promotes State-Backed MAX Messaging App

Russia has implemented a nationwide ban on WhatsApp due to the platform's non-compliance with local legal requirements. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the ban and encouraged users to switch to MAX, a state-supported messaging platform. WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, expressed concerns over the Russian government's actions and the potential impact on user safety. The ban follows a series of restrictions on foreign messaging platforms, including limitations on WhatsApp's functionalities and actions against other platforms like Telegram. Russian authorities have previously imposed fines on WhatsApp for failing to remove illegal content. MAX offers messaging services and integrates access to government services and payment features. Critics argue that the restrictions reflect an effort to enhance state oversight of online communication, which officials deny is intended for surveillance.

AppWizard

February 13, 2026

Russia confirms ban on WhatsApp messaging app

The Russian government has blocked WhatsApp due to its non-compliance with local regulations, affecting about 100 million users. Users are encouraged to switch to a domestic alternative called Max, which does not have end-to-end encryption. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that WhatsApp's refusal to comply with Russian law was a significant factor in the decision. WhatsApp's parent company, Meta, criticized the blockade as an attempt by the Russian government to eliminate access to secure communication and funnel users to a state-controlled app. Critics argue this move is part of a broader effort to control internet usage and suppress dissent in Russia. Additionally, Russia's internet watchdog plans to impose restrictions on the Telegram messaging platform for similar compliance issues.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Moscow restricts Telegram as it pushes rival state-backed messaging app

On February 10, Russia's internet regulatory body, Roskomnadzor, announced the throttling of the messaging platform Telegram due to alleged legal violations. This action is part of a broader strategy to encourage the use of a state-sanctioned alternative, Max. Telegram serves as a crucial communication tool in Russia, widely used by public figures, including government officials. Users reported slow connectivity on Telegram before the announcement, and Roskomnadzor stated it would implement "phased restrictions" on the platform. Some pro-war bloggers expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, emphasizing its potential impact on communication and information operations. Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, criticized the government's actions, arguing they are an attempt to force citizens to use a state-controlled application. Historically, Russia has tried to ban Telegram unsuccessfully, and Durov has faced legal challenges in France. Critics view the restrictions as an effort to tighten control over internet usage in Russia, particularly amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Media watchdogs have condemned these actions as a strategy to limit information circulation.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

If you love hundreds of games for $10 and hate ICE, then boy does Itch.io have just the bundle for you

Indie developers on Itch.io have created the "No ICE in Minnesota" bundle to raise funds for the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM), which provides legal representation to low-income immigrants and refugees. The bundle includes over 1,400 items, such as video games, tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), books, and soundtracks, with more than 1,000 TTRPGs included. The fundraising goal is 0,000, and it has already reached 80% of that target with a month remaining for contributions. Additional donations are welcomed to support the initiative.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Russia: “Slowing down” of Telegram messaging app another blow for freedom of expression

Russian authorities imposed significant slowdowns on the Telegram messenger service, prompting concerns from Marie Struthers, Amnesty International's Eastern Europe and Central Asia Director. She argued that these actions restrict free communication rather than protect against online crime. Struthers noted a trend of increased state control over online communications in Russia, leading users to seek circumvention tools or less secure alternatives. On February 10, restrictions on access to Telegram were initiated by Roskomnadzor, resulting in widespread disruptions. In August 2025, Roskomnadzor limited voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp due to their alleged use in criminal activities, followed by partial restrictions on these platforms. Other messaging services, such as Signal and Viber, have also been blocked. Additionally, Russian authorities promoted the domestically developed MAX messenger, raising concerns among human rights groups regarding its security and privacy.

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

Students in Russia are forced to use Putin’s national messaging app Max

Universities in Russia are mandating the installation of the national messaging app, Max, for students, with reports of pressure and sanctions for those who refuse. At Northern (Arctic) Federal University, students must download Max to access essential educational functions, as the current system will be replaced. The government of Arkhangelsk region announced a transition to Max for all educational institutions by November 2025, citing digital sovereignty and safety concerns. By the end of November, at least 23 universities reported coercion to adopt Max. At Kuban State Technological University, students are monitored for connections to Max, and registration is required. St. Petersburg State University has restricted Wi-Fi access to users of Max. Kazan Federal University plans to limit access to facilities and resources through Max starting in 2026. At Baikal State University, students without Max cannot take exams or receive credits. Kursk Medical University students face threats regarding attendance and exam retakes without the app. Some students at Kuban State University have been warned about disciplinary measures for non-compliance. The Ministry of Digital Development stated that coercion to install Max is illegal, though no alternatives are provided. Max, developed by a VK subsidiary, was established as a national messenger and is promoted as a secure alternative to foreign apps. However, it lacks end-to-end encryption, raising concerns about user data surveillance. Recent legislation has also expanded Max's functions to include age verification for purchases and communication for housing management.